Consultant for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation. ICAO's mission is to ensure that international civil aviation is safe, secure, and environmentally sustainable. The organization was founded in 1944 and has since grown to include 193 member states. ICAO plays a crucial role in setting global standards and regulations for aviation safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and environmental protection, including initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from aviation. The organization operates in multiple countries around the world, providing guidance and support to its member states in various aspects of civil aviation.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) will play a pivotal role in conducting feasibility and business implementation studies aimed at developing and deploying sustainable aviation fuels in designated supported states. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of the aviation sector's environmental challenges, particularly in relation to greenhouse gas emissions. The consultant will work closely with national authorities and key stakeholders to assess the potential for SAF production, develop implementation roadmaps, and ensure that studies align with ICAO's guidelines and the objectives of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). The consultant will also be responsible for submitting weekly progress reports and collaborating with various stakeholders to facilitate capacity-building activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: liaising with project coordinators and state focal points to define study objectives and timelines; conducting pre-assessments to evaluate the feasibility of SAF projects; developing detailed work plans that outline deliverables, milestones, and risk management strategies; identifying and engaging with relevant stakeholders in the aviation and energy sectors; participating in project meetings and workshops; conducting comprehensive feasibility studies that analyze potential feedstocks, production technologies, and market dynamics; assessing regulatory frameworks and identifying funding barriers; and preparing draft reports for review and final publication. The consultant will also be expected to present findings to stakeholders and perform any additional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as environmental science, engineering, public policy, or aviation. Essential qualifications include a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in sustainable aviation fuels, renewable energy, or related fields, with a strong understanding of policies and regulations governing SAF production. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in public policy development, environmental impact assessments, and the economics of SAF. Desirable qualifications include international experience in advisory roles and familiarity with ICAO's functions and organizational structure.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as environmental science, energy, biofuels, chemistry, engineering, or public policy. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively conduct feasibility studies and provide expert advice on sustainable aviation fuels and their implementation.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in fields related to sustainable aviation fuels, biofuels, renewable energy, or environmental assessments. This experience should include providing expert advice on public policy development and implementation, particularly in the context of climate change and alternative energy for aviation. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the economics of SAF and innovative financing mechanisms.

Languages:
Fluency in English is essential, with strong reading, writing, and speaking abilities. Depending on the supported state, proficiency in Arabic, French, or Spanish may also be required. A working knowledge of additional languages spoken in ICAO member states, such as Chinese or Russian, is desirable. For one specific study, proficiency in Portuguese is also considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy may be offered as either a full-time or part-time position, with a duration of six months. The consultant is expected to deliver the study within this timeline, with specific intermediate deliverables outlined in the contract. The position is primarily remote, but it will require travel to the supported states for project-related activities. The studies will focus on several countries, including Senegal, Mauritania, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, Mozambique, Madagascar, and Egypt, with specific language requirements for each state. Depending on the applicant profiles, ICAO may choose to hire one consultant full-time or two part-time consultants for each study, resulting in a total of 7 to 14 positions to fill.